Ah, the glorious season of fall! There’s something magical about the crisp air, the vibrant colors, and the aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the house. One of my all-time favorite treats that perfectly captures this vibe is my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. These cookies have become a beloved recipe not just in my home but also with my friends and family. I remember the first time I brought them to a cozy gathering; they disappeared almost instantly, and I was quickly dubbed the “Pumpkin Cookie Queen.”
What makes these cookies so special is the combination of warm pumpkin flavor and the sweet bursts of chocolate. They are soft, chewy, and the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for dunking in coffee or enjoying on a chilly afternoon, these cookies are not only delicious but also remind me of golden autumn days spent baking with my grandma. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that you won’t want to miss!
What’s in Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the show! I always use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but make sure it’s 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which is loaded with sugar and spices.
Butter: Using unsalted butter gives us control over the saltiness of our cookies. I recommend letting it soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar brings a lovely sweetness and depth. The brown sugar also adds that chewy texture we all love.
Egg: This acts as a binder and adds moisture. A room temperature egg will mix more easily into the batter.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookie. I love using a good quality flour for the best results.
Baking Soda: This helps our cookies rise perfectly and achieve that chewy texture.
Spices: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger gives these cookies a cozy, warm flavor that’s just perfect for fall.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add a delightful sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. I prefer using good-quality chocolate chips for an extra treat!
Is Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Good for You?
Well, it’s a cookie, so let’s not kid ourselves about it being a health food. However, there are a few perks to this delightful treat!
Pumpkin Puree: It’s not just for decoration during Halloween! Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, all of which are great for overall health.
Dark Chocolate Chips: Chocolate in moderation can contribute to heart health due to antioxidants. Just keep an eye on the quantity—these little morsels are calorie-dense!
Keep in mind, though, that with the sugar and butter, these cookies should be enjoyed in moderation or as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 large egg (room temperature)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
– ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
*This recipe yields about 24 cookies.*
How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **In a mixing bowl**, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Add the pumpkin puree**, egg, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Mix until everything is combined and smooth.
4. **In another bowl**, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger (if using).
5. **Gradually add the dry ingredients** to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
6. **Fold in the chocolate chips** and make sure they’re evenly distributed.
7. **Drop rounded tablespoons** of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. They will spread a little, so give them some room!
8. **Bake** for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look a bit underbaked, but trust me, they’ll set up as they cool.
9. **Let the cookies cool** on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Sweet Tips for Soft and Chewy Perfection
– If you like nuts in your cookies, feel free to add some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch!
– These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Just make sure to cool them completely first before placing them in a freezer bag—perfect for those moments when a sweet craving strikes!
– For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of white chocolate or honey on top after they cool for an aesthetically pleasing finish.
I can’t wait for you to try these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They’re a comforting reminder of the fall season and a delightful treat during gatherings or cozy nights in. If you whip up a batch, don’t forget to share how they turned out—I love hearing your stories! Happy baking!